6. The Legend of the Hidden Portal

One of the most intriguing and mysterious legends about Yoros Castle is the tale of a secret portal that supposedly lies hidden beneath its stone walls. According to local folklore, the castle was once a place of ancient rituals and ceremonies, and it is believed that a hidden door or secret tunnel was built long ago to allow important figures to enter and leave the castle undetected. This portal was said to lead to a distant, hidden location, possibly a secret sanctuary or a place of great importance.

The legend claims that the portal was used by the Byzantine emperors, or later by Ottoman sultans, to secretly travel between different parts of Istanbul or to escape in times of danger. Over time, the entrance to the portal was concealed, and its exact location was lost. Some stories say that the tunnel was blocked off and forgotten, while others suggest that it is still waiting to be rediscovered. Locals say that during certain times of the year, when the moon is full, you can hear the faint sound of stone moving, as if the secret portal is being opened again. Adventurous souls who explore the castle’s ruins are often drawn to this legend, hoping to find the hidden entrance and uncover the castle’s forgotten history.

The idea of a hidden portal adds an extra layer of intrigue to Yoros Castle, fueling imaginations and encouraging treasure hunters and history seekers to explore the ruins in search of long-lost secrets.